Dementia is a condition that results in progressive memory or thinking problems. It's now the most common cause of death in Australia.

There are many different causes of dementia, but Alzheimer's disease accounts for around 60–80% of all cases.

Last week, Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved a new drug for early Alzheimer's diseases: lecanemab, sold under the brand name Leqembi. It follows the approval of a similar drug, donanemab, earlier this year.

But while lecanemab has been shown to slow the progression of disease in some people who receive an early diagnosis, it comes with a high price-tag that will put it out of reach for many Australians.

How does it work?

Lecanemab is from a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies .

When our bodies are

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